For(u)m returns with its third Build Local: Subcontractor Expo, bringing focus to developing a localized supply chain in urban development

The Build Local: Subcontractor Expo is presented by For(u)m, Local First Arizona’s membership-based program committed to furthering diverse and thoughtful development through the use of infill, adaptive reuse, preservation, and redevelopment.

Local subcontractors such as carpenters, steelworkers, glass workers, engineers, and designers will showcase their exemplary crafts and skill sets at the event. In brief, the expo-style gathering creates a unique opportunity for subcontractors to showcase their products and services to architects, developers, and anyone taking on (re)development projects of any size.

The Build Local: Subcontractor Expo was created to fill a need in the development community to find qualified tradesmen and subcontractors for various projects, creating a robust and complete local supply chain. The Expo also allows anyone in the community taking on individual projects to find a local construction specialist or artisan to work with. We want to make what is often a very daunting and complex undertaking accessible to everyone. 

— Brooke Nisenbaum, Community Planning Manager for Local First Arizona

This will be For(u)m’s third expo since its launch in 2016. For(u)m is a hub for development professionals who care about urban infill projects and ensuring residents, city governments, and business stakeholders are part of the conversation when new projects launch. An idea of creating a “forum” for critical conversations regarding our built environment and its “form” gave birth the name For(u)m.

Over 50 attendees were brought together at each of the first two expos to view works by dozens of subcontractors laid out in an array to share their unique crafts, and what they bring to development projects. The attendees included developers, woodworkers, architects, real estate brokers, bankers, home staging, and general contractors.

I’m a designer and developer type, so I am always looking for the best subcontractors and the highest caliber I can afford. I’ve enjoyed coming to past Subcontractor Expos because I can get business cards and have discussions with the tradesmen right there, and I might leave and give a few an opportunity to work on a future project.

— Joel Contreras, Joel Contreras Design

The Build Local: Subcontractor Expo is made possible with the support of Western Windows Systems. Besides the expo, For(u)m host various events that strive to create promote sustainable and thoughtful development. Further details on upcoming For(u)m initiatives and events can be found at https://www.localfirstaz.com/forum/.